He said: "The conservation work done by many of our members in this area is forgotten because of the actions of a few."

Mr Hogg said steps have been taken to tackle persecution.

He added: "As well as educating, we have expelled members found to commit wrong-doing and where conflicts arise, as they will, we advocate lawful solutions.

"That said, many responsible game managers have had eagles on their land for many, many years now. They are willing to assist wider eagle conservation and have skills to be an asset."

'Criminal practices'

Earlier this week, the Scottish government announced a series of actions aimed at protecting birds of prey.

Launching the initiative, Environment Minister Paul Wheelhouse condemned the "outdated, barbaric and criminal practices" which he said had put wildlife at risk.

Lord Advocate Frank Mulholland has ordered prosecutors in the wildlife and environmental crime unit to work with Police Scotland to make sure all investigative means possible are being used.

Scottish Natural Heritage has been asked to examine if general licences for trapping and shooting wild birds could be restricted on land where there is good reason to believe crimes have taken place.

And a special group will be established to review how wildlife crimes are treated within the legal system. It will examine whether the penalties imposed are tough enough to protect species such as the golden eagle, hen harriers and red kites.